How To Create Visible Suicide Prevention Messaging
Visible suicide prevention messaging plays an important role in reducing stigma, and in normalising conversations about mental health and seeking support. When people regularly see clear and supportive messages, they are more likely to feel confident speaking up about their wellbeing and accessing help when they need it.
Why This Matters
Sports organisations have a unique opportunity to create environments where people feel connected, supported, and able to seek help. Visible suicide prevention messaging can:
- Encourage open conversations about mental health
- Increase awareness of available support
- Reduce stigma associated with asking for help
- Empower individuals to seek support for themselves or others
- Demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to wellbeing
STEP 1
Develop Clear And Action-Focused Messages
Suicide prevention messaging should be:
- Easy to understand
- Clear and concise
- Focused on action and support
- Relevant to your audience
- Consistently visible across your organisation
Examples of effective messages include:
- “It’s okay to ask for help”
- “You are not alone”
- “Support is available”
- “Looking out for teammates starts with a conversation”
- “If you’re struggling, speak to someone you trust”
- “If you are worried about someone, ask”
Where possible, signpost individuals to your organisation’s welfare or suicide prevention officer and external support services.
For information on How To Appoint A Person Responsible For Suicide Prevention, click here.
STEP 2
Use Positive And Hopeful Imagery
The imagery you choose is just as important as the words you use.
When creating posters, social media content, websites, or other materials:
DO:
- Use images that promote hope, connection, recovery, and support
- Show positive relationships, teamwork, and community
- Reflect the diversity of people within your organisation
AVOID:
- Images that focus on despair, hopelessness, or isolation
- Common mental health stereotypes such as dark clouds, heads in hands, or other imagery that may reinforce negative perceptions
STEP 3
Make Messaging Visible Across Multiple Platforms
The more opportunities people have to see and engage with your messaging, the greater its impact.
Consider displaying suicide prevention messaging across:
- Clubhouses
- Reception areas
- Offices
- Changing rooms
- Training grounds
- Noticeboards and posters
- Billboards/match-day screens
- Organisation websites
- Mobile apps
- Internal communication platforms
- Social media channels
- Email signatures
- Match-day programmes
- Newsletters
- Member communications
- Volunteer and staff induction packs
Creating visible suicide prevention messaging is a simple but powerful way for sports organisations to foster a culture of support, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking. By using clear messages, hopeful imagery, and multiple communication channels, organisations can help ensure that anyone who may be struggling knows that they are not alone and that support is available.
For more tips on developing safe and informed suicide prevention messaging, see Samaritans Media Guidelines
